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Wavemaker Partners is a venture capital firm founded in 2012 and headquartered in Singapore. The firm specializes in early-stage investments across Southeast Asia, focusing on sectors such as Enterprise, Deep Tech, and Sustainability. Wavemaker Partners manages approximately $500 million in assets across multiple funds, making it one of the most prolific early-stage investors in the region.
Since its inception, Wavemaker has built a diverse portfolio of over 200 companies, demonstrating its commitment to identifying and supporting startups that provide innovative solutions to significant global challenges. The firm has established a strong presence in the Southeast Asian market, with a notable emphasis on aligning its investments with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Wavemaker Partners has achieved several milestones, including the successful closing of multiple funds, with the most recent being Fund IV at $136 million. The firm operates from its office located at 182 Cecil Street, #17-01, Frasers Tower, Singapore 069547.
Wavemaker Partners invests in early-stage startups that are often overlooked and undervalued, with a strong emphasis on creating lasting value and positive change. Their investment strategy is centered on identifying companies that contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The firm targets various sectors, including healthcare, accommodation and tourism, agriculture, construction, and finance.
The firm focuses on investment stages ranging from Pre-seed to Series A, including Seed and Seed+ (Extension) rounds. Wavemaker typically invests in companies that demonstrate innovative solutions to pressing global issues, particularly those that align with sustainability and technological advancement. Their check sizes vary, reflecting the early-stage nature of their investments.
Wavemaker Partners seeks founders who are passionate about their missions and possess a clear vision for their companies. The firm values collaboration and mentorship, providing strategic guidance and support to help startups navigate the complexities of scaling their businesses in Southeast Asia.
Wavemaker Partners has a diverse portfolio of notable companies, including:
Other portfolio companies include Atomionics, GoZayaan, LiveIn, Neocrete, and Novade, each addressing critical global challenges through innovative solutions. The firm’s extensive portfolio reflects its commitment to investing in companies that align with its focus on sustainability and technological advancement.
Paul Santos: Co-founder and Managing Partner. Paul has extensive experience in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments in the region.
Eric Manlunas: Co-founder and General Partner. Eric brings a wealth of knowledge in early-stage investing and has been instrumental in building Wavemaker's portfolio.
Andy Hwang: General Partner. Andy specializes in technology investments and has a strong background in scaling startups.
Joel Ang: Principal, Investment. Joel focuses on sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities within the firm.
Phuong Tran: Principal, Investment / Head of Vietnam. Phuong leads Wavemaker's efforts in Vietnam, leveraging her local expertise to identify promising startups.
John Wisnioski: Principal, Investment. John has a background in finance and technology, contributing to the firm's investment strategy.
To pitch Wavemaker Partners, founders should reach out via email at info@wavemakerpartners.com. It is essential to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and financial projections. The firm prefers detailed information that showcases the startup's alignment with their investment thesis, particularly regarding sustainability and innovation.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.
In March 2022, Wavemaker Partners announced the closing of Fund IV at $136 million, marking a significant milestone in their investment journey. This fund will continue to focus on early-stage investments across Southeast Asia, particularly in sectors aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Additionally, Wavemaker Partners has been actively investing in a diverse range of early-stage startups, with recent investments in companies like Growsari, Lhoopa, and Silent Eight, reflecting their commitment to addressing significant global challenges.
What are Wavemaker Partners' investment criteria?
Wavemaker Partners focuses on early-stage startups that are often overlooked and undervalued. They seek companies that align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and operate in sectors such as healthcare, enterprise, deep tech, and sustainability.
How can I apply or pitch to Wavemaker Partners?
Founders can pitch their ideas to Wavemaker Partners via email at info@wavemakerpartners.com. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and financial projections in the pitch deck.
What makes Wavemaker Partners different from other VCs?
The firm emphasizes investments that contribute to significant global challenges and aligns its portfolio with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This sustainability focus differentiates Wavemaker from many typical Southeast Asian VCs.
What is the geographic scope of Wavemaker Partners?
Wavemaker Partners primarily invests in early-stage startups located in Southeast Asia, focusing on markets that are often overlooked by larger venture capital firms.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Wavemaker Partners invests across various stages, including Pre-seed, Seed, and Series A, with check sizes varying based on the stage and specific needs of the startup.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
Wavemaker Partners provides strategic guidance, mentorship, and access to a vast network of industry connections to help portfolio companies navigate the complexities of scaling their businesses.
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